Haystack Fires in Australia: Causes and Considerations for Preventative Management

Abstract

The spontaneous combustion of hay when stacked after baling is an issue frequently encountered by farmers in Australia and elsewhere. While there is a basic understanding of why this occurs the interactions of the many factors involved mean that there is still no consistent methodology for its prevention. Recent technological advances in sensors and communications allow for the continual collection of quantitative data from hay bales or stacks for managers to utilize in their decision-making processes with regards to minimizing the risks of spontaneous combustion. This review discusses both the factors involved in the spontaneous combustion of haystacks and the types of sensors available for the monitoring of these factors. This includes advancements in sensor technologies and their practical applications in monitoring hay bale conditions.

Keywords

• spontaneous combustion
• high temperature
• remote sensing